Mamata Banerjee warns of 'autocratic rule' if BJP returns to power in 2024

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a cautionary message on Monday, suggesting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) might expedite the Lok Sabha elections, even holding them in December. She expressed concerns over a potential third term for the BJP leading to an "autocratic" governance.

Speaking at a rally organised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) youth wing, she underscored her apprehension that the nation could experience divisive leadership under the BJP's rule.

Banerjee's remarks were delivered in the context of ongoing political developments and the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled for 2024. She alleged that all available choppers had been reserved by the BJP for campaign purposes, potentially limiting other political parties' access to the same resources for canvassing.

Elaborating on her concerns, Banerjee said, "If BJP returns to power for the third consecutive term, the nation would face an autocratic rule. I am apprehensive that they (BJP) could hold the Lok Sabha elections in December itself or in January next year. The saffron party has already turned our country into a nation in the throes of animosity among communities. If they return to power, it will make our country a nation of hatred."

In the wake of an explosion at an illicit firecracker factory in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district that claimed nine lives, Banerjee pointed fingers at individuals engaging in unlawful activities with alleged support from certain police personnel. She emphasised that while most police officers were dutifully carrying out their responsibilities, some were aiding illegal actions.

Banerjee urged those involved in the firecracker industry to transition towards producing environmentally friendly "green firecrackers," despite potential profit reductions, highlighting the importance of safety and environmental consciousness.

Addressing her concerns about governance, Banerjee criticised Governor C V Ananda Bose for his alleged violations of constitutional norms. She took a strong stance against his actions, asserting, "Don't take 'panga' (challenge) with an elected government."

The chief minister expressed her determination to thwart the BJP's ambitions, claiming that she had already put an end to the three-decade-long rule of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in Bengal and would continue her efforts to defeat the BJP in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

In response to Banerjee's remarks, Sujan Chakraborty, a central committee member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), acknowledged her ability to track Prime Minister Narendra Modi's actions. He surmised that her statements could reflect the sentiments of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the parent organisation of the BJP, or possibly be an attempt to mislead other political parties.